The Lagos State House of Assembly has reaffirmed its decision to impeach its former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, dismissing his claims that the process was unconstitutional.
Obasa was impeached on January 13 over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office. His removal came weeks after reports surfaced that he allegedly spent ₦17 billion on constructing a gate for the assembly complex. The lawmakers unanimously voted to replace him with the new Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda.
Obasa, who was absent during the impeachment proceedings, returned to Lagos on Saturday and addressed his supporters at his Joel Ogunnaike GRA residence in Ikeja. Speaking to newsmen, he maintained that he was still the Speaker, citing procedural flaws in the impeachment process.
“If you want to remove me, remove me the proper way, and I will not contest it. I’m a Muslim, and I believe in fate. But let’s do it the way it should be done,” Obasa said.
In response, the Assembly released a statement signed by Ogundipe Olukayode, asserting that Obasa’s impeachment adhered to constitutional provisions. The statement emphasized that over two-thirds of the lawmakers supported the move, making it legally valid.
“It is imperative to clarify that over two-thirds of the members of the Lagos State House of Assembly are solidly united behind the new Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda,” the statement read.
The Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to good governance and peaceful cooperation with other arms of government. It described Obasa’s stance as “uncalled for and unparliamentary,” urging him to accept the decision.
“All members were elected from their various constituencies and have inalienable rights under statutory orders to remove principal officers, including the Speaker,” the statement continued. “Any attempt to heat up the polity will be resisted by the majority of distinguished members who unanimously elected Rt. Hon. Meranda.”
The Assembly has vowed to defend its decision, stressing that the new Speaker’s leadership enjoys the overwhelming support of its members.
